About Thomas V.

All Styles, All Levels! Emphasis on drawing a good tone, and efficient technique to allow for greater ease in playing!

About Thomas

Currently Thomas is an Orchestra Director in Merrick Public Schools, and has previous experience as a Music Teacher in New York City.

Thomas has vast experience as a professional performer and has played with countless acts across many different Genres of music.

Thomas is an experienced private instructor and will bring the best out of every student. Experienced will all ages, skill levels, music styles, special needs, and everything else that comes along with teaching.

Thomas holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Education from Hofstra University, as well as an Assosiates Degree in Music Perforance from NCC.

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Reviews

Laura January 11, 2018·Piano·In home

Great teacher! Both my kids love him. He's patient, great with kids, prepared and talented. Can't say enough great things!

Dylan November 18, 2017·Piano·In home

My experience with Thomas has been great! My son can get distracted easily and Thomas keeps his attention and demonstrates the right balance of patience and firmness to keep my son engaged while letting him know the importance of practice and proper technique. He was definitely the right choice for my son:)

John November 13, 2017·Guitar·In home

Thomas is great at helping you get to your goal

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Thomas V.

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Thomas V.

Massapequa, NY 11758

(35)

starting at

$41
/ 30-min

About Benjamin L.

I've taught cello for the last 12 years, and try to infuse the same enthusiasm into my students as I experienced in my journey to where I am today. I use both the Suzuki method books and the Applebaum String Builder books to start with beginners, depending on level and experience, with an emphasis on music reading. After that, the student's progress will dictate the best route to follow.

About Benjamin

In my years of teaching, I have developed an individual approach with each student, young or old, according to different needs and learning styles. I believe it is never too early or too late to begin learning, and it is my hope that music making through this instrument will be as enjoyable and passionate an experience for you as it has been for me. Whether you are looking on behalf of your son or daughter, looking to take on a new challenge later in life, or anything in between, I look forward to hearing why you want to learn to play the cello! (House calls available too!)

I've included my bio below, for those who may be interested.

Cellist Benjamin L. made his solo debut in 1999 at the Merryall Center for the Arts, where critic for the Danbury News Times, Frank Merkling, called him “remarkably gifted”, with “a charming, warm tone”

. He has performed in various venues in the Tri-State area, including concerto performances with the Hartford Symphony, Farmington Valley Symphony and Musica Dolce Ensemble, and solo and chamber performances in Asia and Europe. He is an avid chamber musician, having performed with the Enao Ensemble in chamber concerts to benefit the charity, the Bishop’s Fund for Children, from 2000-2010, was the cellist and founding member of the Lorelei Piano Trio and has been a member of several other chamber music ensembles. As a free-lance cellist, he has performed with many diverse ensembles, accompanying the musical, “Time Between Us” in the New York Musical Theater Festival, appearing with the band, The Left Banke, playing with Ensemble 212 and Shattered Glass. In addition to performing, he is on the faculty of the Zen Music School, Port Jefferson Music Academy and coaches chamber music for Jeunes Virtuoses de New York, as well as teaching privately. He is also the artistic director of Concerts on the Slope, a chamber music series in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and the Artist-in-Residence for Music at Trinity of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Bronx.

Mr. L. has performed at several summer music festivals including the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, Castleman’s Quartet Program, Music at Menlo and Pacific Music Festival, and has won top prizes in several competitions. His chamber music mentors have included members of the Emerson, Tokyo, American and Keller String Quartets, as well as Robert Mann, Nicholas Mann, Peter Frankl, Andre Michel Schub, and Daniel Epstein, Sylvia Rosenberg and several others. He has taken master classes with Keith Robinson and Colin Carr, and past teachers include Eric Dahlin, David Finckel, Julia Lichten and Clive Greensmith, as well as lessons with Marta Casals Istomin and Bonnie Hampton.

As an orchestral musician he has performed with the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong, the Empire State Sinfonia, the Pacific Music Festival Orchestra, the Salome Chamber Orchestra in New York City, and the Farmington Valley Symphony, as well as the Manhattan School of Music orchestras. Mr. L. holds Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Manhattan School of Music, where he was the recipient of the Hans and Klara Bauer Scholarship and the 2011 Pablo Casals Award.

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect my students to have an instrument, method books (after I recommend one), a suitable arm less chair and music stand. I can travel anywhere public transportation can take me. (NYC or nearby New Jersey)

*** Specialties ***I am familiar with, though not trained or certified in, Suzuki method, but I teach traditionally, often using the Suzuki and String Builder books, with an emphasis on reading music.

...

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Benjamin L.

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Benjamin L.

Astoria, NY 11102

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Catherine W.

About Catherine

Catherine is a performer, teacher, and arranger. She has performed in world class venues such as Weill Recital Hall in Carnegie Hall, Merkin Hall, Kosciuszko Foundation, as well as the Museum of Natural History, and she has performed with over thirty different chamber ensembles, including the American String Quartet and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Her career developments are primarily in music, but she also pursues interest in creative writing, journal writing and human rights. She has given many community performances and raised charity funds for organizations such as World Vision, A. G. Rhodes Health & Rehab nursing home, Columbia Hospital, Corpus Christi Church, and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Catherine initially gained her musical inspiration through her family and has been performing since her youth. Her family provided

her countless opportunities to perform, to participate in event planning, and to experiment with new music and arranging. She grew up participating in her mother's studio recitals at home and enjoys an annual family tradition of organizing and performing Christmas programs at church. One of Catherine's projects during her studies at the Manhattan School of Music was the Symposium Concert Series, which has led her to perform in apartment homes around the city and build a community of young artists. She has made countless arrangements for solo viola and viola with various ensembles which she often performs.

Catherine resides in Brooklyn, New York with her husband, Lawrence. She plays on a Raymond J. Melanson viola made in 1987.

*** Lesson Details ***I'm able to travel to the student's home or teach at my home. Parents are welcome to sit in the lesson.

*** Studio Equipment ***N/A

*** Specialties ***Patience

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Reviews

Naoko March 1, 2018·Violin·In studio

Great artist and a teacher. My 6 year old enjoys her lessons and I love her down to earth vibe.

Jasmin February 20, 2018·Violin·In home

She is a great artist and a teacher. Patient and talented.

Gina February 18, 2018·Violin·In studio

Catherine is a great teacher! As an beginning adult violin student, she was patient and encouraging while also challenging me to practice new materials. She was always accommodating with lessons if dates or times needed to be changed. I would highly recommend her for students of all ages and levels!

Catherine W.

Catherine W.

About Concetta A.

The cello is one of the most beautiful instruments! Experts say it has the closest sound to the human voice.

About Concetta

Private instruction, early childhood education, elementary and high school education, Continuing Adult Education

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Reviews

Winston Thomas June 11, 2017·Violin·In studio

It was truly a pleasure meeting Concetta for my first ever violin lesson. It is difficult to learn anything at the age 40, specially a musical instrument, but she made it comfortable and easy to understand. She's extremely patient a key quality when teaching a subject such a music to anyone. I would say, give her teaching style a try and you won't regret it. Very knowledgeable indeed.

Matthew February 27, 2017·Singing·In home

She was great, first lesson and I learned a lot about how to improve my singing, demonstrably so. Very pleased, looking forward to continuing.

Blyth February 2, 2017·Fiddle·Online

Very patient and beyond knowledgeable! I haven't done anything with TakeLessons before and my online class was hosted via skype so it was easy to get connected and learn at my own pace. I like that my lessons will be tailored to my style and my level of musical understanding. She has excellent follow-up for after the lessons as well. I'm excited to be a student again :)

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Concetta A.

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Concetta A.

Brooklyn, NY 11222

(30)

starting at

$50
/ 30-min

About Aiden F.

I've been studying cello for 20 years and classical voice and opera for 8 years. I've been teaching for 7 years. I'm currently a graduate student in Dawn Upshaw's vocal program at Bard College. I received a BS in Music for Cello and Voice, graduating magna cum laude with high honors (Honors College). I am able to teach students of all levels of experience. I believe that music should be joyful and life-enhancing, inspiring in every aspect of our being. I create a relaxed work environment while moving ahead.

About Aiden

I'm a professional opera singer and published writer. I have my BS and MM. I'm fun, patient, and find the best way to teach each individual. I love to help each person find their personal artistry.

I always keep my appointments and arrive on time with lots of positive energy and enthusiasm.

...

Reviews

Paula B. September 4, 2015·Singing·In studio

I took singing lessons with Kimberly and she is an excellent teacher. She's patient knows a lot about singing and is easy to work with. She can relate to anyone because of her pleasant personality. I really enjoyed my singing lessons with her .

Michael D. May 6, 2015·Italian·In home

Kim is a polite and professional instructor who has a deep understanding of the Italian language. I am a beginner and appreciate her patience with me as well as her ability to help me progress at each lesson.

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Aiden F.

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Aiden F.

New York, NY 10001

(2)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

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About Kristen D.

I'm a cellist and educator who has taught students of all ages and abilities. I strive to enable my students to find their own style and voice on the instrument. During the past six years my students have applied their skills in orchestras, recitals, and bands. My lesson plans include technical development, various repertoire including Suzuki, and exploration of personal musical interests and songwriting. Cello is my passion and I want to share that with you!

About Kristen

Kristen is an accomplished cellist and music educator who has been teaching private lessons since 2009. She has helped her students develop technique, confidence in playing, note reading, orchestral and improvisational skills.

Kristen received her training at the Boston Conservatory, earning a Bachelor of Music in String Performance (2008) and a Masters of Music in Music Education (2010.) Her teaching style can be described as kind, patient, and knowledgable, with the ability to help push her students to new heights through finding their own musical voice through the instrument.

Kristen is also an experienced performing musician. She has toured nationally and internationally, and her cello playing with the band Gem Club can be heard on NPR's "All Songs Considered" and "Tiny Desk Concerts." You can hear her on the soundtrack to ABC'

s "Private Practice" and "Revenge", as well as NBC's "Parenthood".

...

Reviews

Rachel G. April 16, 2016·Cello·In home

Kristen is absolutely fantastic. Our teen was a first time cello player and she learned an immense amount and was completely inspired by Kristen.

Katarina October 14, 2015·Cello·In home

Kristen has been a truly fantastic cello teacher to my daughter (14) for over 3 years!
Her lessons are truly engaging and productive and she can communicate the information in a way that is easy to understand. She so very patient and encouraging while also inspiring excellence in her students. She keeps the lessons fun and interesting by spending some time each week on playing duets, sight-reading and learning a variety of musical styles. Her own incredible musical talent is an inspiration and her enthusiasm is contagious!

Kristen D.

Kristen D.

About Lenna P.

I am an emotive cellist with two decades experience. As a member of the Park Quartet (the quartet in residence at Park Church) I recently performed at the 100th anniversary of McGolrick Park. I love sharing classical music with all levels of students. Lessons with me are calm, meditative experiences where we use Zen techniques to enter into the heart of music.

About Lenna

Hello cellists! My name is Lenna and I am pleased to meet you! I've been teaching private lessons since 2011 and have loved helping my students improve their tone, learn better sight reading skills, and become more relaxed around their cellos. I studied chamber music for four years under the world famous Chiara Quartet. My favorite books about classical music are: The Art of Practicing and Just Play Naturally. I'm a kind and patient person and my teaching style is focused on comfort and emotional vibrancy in performance. I look forward to guiding you through some wonderful musical experiences.

...

Reviews

Lisabel L. December 11, 2017·Cello·In home

It’s true what the other reviews say about her kindness and patience. Lenna is a warm, thoughtful and generous human being. She also happens to be a gifted teacher and skilled cellist. She is able to correct tiny details in my playing that make a huge difference in sound. Better yet, she approaches it in a way that I might be able to make those corrections for myself, by asking me what I heard first and listening to my observations. Also her approach to practice and playfulness is something I aim to use in many aspects of my life.

Francesca November 6, 2017·Cello·In home

Lenna is the best!! She is incredibly patient and positive, and very professional. My daughter (age 10) is really enjoying working with her!!! We would give Lenna 6 stars if we could!!!

Ariane B. June 23, 2017·Cello·In home

Lenna is a warm, competent and encouraging teacher whose patience and good humor have helped my daughter to develop a love of the cello. Talia practices for fun, and shares some of the conversations she has with Lenna with her friends because they mean a lot to her. For example, every week Talia seems to ask what the saddest note is, and she and Lenna play and discuss the emotional tenor of the cello. It means a great deal to Talia and she recounts thw discussions to her friends, for whom she now volunteers to play cello.

The nuts and bolts: Lenna is easy to reach, responsive and accommodating. She arrives on time and prepared. She is able to communicate effectively during lessons and gives good feedback and good homework. She is positive and encouraging, too.

Lenna P.

Lenna P.

About Xavier R.

NYS Certified Music Teacher. Public school teacher (Elementary)on Long Island since 2002. Excited to work with new students and students desiring to learn more and do more with their instrument!

About Xavier

Music education is my passion. Currently a certified New York State N-12 music teacher, teaching instrumental music in a school district on Long Island. I have been playing piano since I was 5 years old and performed a pair of recitals at Carnegie Hall and other fine performance halls. In addition to the piano I play multiple instruments and teach several such as the cello, violin, trumpet, clarinet and saxophone. Learning to play an instrument and make music can be challenging but it is wonderful experience! I look forward in teaching you.

...

Reviews

Chelsey S. November 13, 2017·Violin·In home

My daughter really enjoyed her 1st Session. She stated that the Instructor was very patient and he made learning to play the Violin very interactive and fun.

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Xavier R.

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Xavier R.

Elmont, NY 11003

(1)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Trevor R.

I have six years' professional experience teaching privately, and I specialize in Classical, Jazz, and Popular styles. I use a patient approach to accommodate each student's unique learning styles, challenges, and interests. While each student will have a personalized experience, all the necessary fundamentals will be covered, including technique, note reading, music theory, and ear training. Send me a message letting me know what your goals are. I can't wait to make music with you!

About Trevor

I am a professional bassist and teacher living in Park Slope, Brooklyn. In 2017 I earned a Bachelors of Music with a concentration in Instrumental Music Education from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. I have experience teaching students from age 5 up through adulthood, and I have taught several students with special needs. I am proud to say that students of mine have won concerto competitions, earned first-degree ratings at solo and ensemble festivals, and have gone on to continue their study at the collegiate level.

As a bassist, I am fluent in Classical, Jazz, and Popular styles. Before moving to New York, I played with multiple orchestras and chamber groups around the Detroit area, including the Dearborn Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Jazz Festival Brass and Percussion Ensemble, and others. I have been fortunate to share the stag

e with the likes of Sean Jones, Joshua Redman, Jason Moran, as well as Leonard Slatkin.

I would love to get to know what you or your student's learning goals are! Please feel free to contact me at your convenience so we can start making great music!

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Reviews

Daylan P. February 15, 2018·Upright Bass·Online

Very impressed with Trevor’s organization, communication, and skill. He quickly figured out my son’s skill level and pushed him to the next level. Online was so convenient, too.

Sam F. January 16, 2018·Cello·In home

After a month of lessons with Trevor I feel I must express my appreciation and satisfaction. Learning the cello for a beginner is not an easy task, but Teacher/instructor Trevor makes it happen with his patience, his practical approach and his professionalism with a very healthy attitude it all works. His understanding to what me as the student want is amazing. He doesn't waste time and he keeps me going ahead, and the success is actually reflecting. He has the technique for every step of the way. I am amazed how much I already accomplished in such short time, Thanks to Trevor for teaching effectively. I look forward for every lesson.

Sam F. November 29, 2017·Cello·In home

Just did first lesson. Was great! Trevor is a nice, calm, understanding, professional, customizing to student's goals, no time waster, practical, good cello teacher. Looking forward for next lesson/s. Will see how it goes.

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Trevor R.

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Trevor R.

Brooklyn, NY 11215

(5)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Maria H.

Want to be a creative thinker and fearless musician behind the instrument? Come take lessons! I have 4 years of teaching young children not only in music but also chess and science. I cater each lesson to the student to optimize curiosity, learning, and fun! My extensive background in contemporary performance shaped my unique approach to technique and musical interpretations. Students will develop a strong sense of theory and technique, listening, improvising and sight-reading skills. There's no single way to play the cello, and together we'll find the way that works best for you!

About Maria

A contemporary cellist and champion of current music, Maria has been described as a “stunning” and “brilliant” musician, performing with a natural spunk. A resident of Queens, NY, Maria has performed in venues around the city ranging from recital halls and churches to DIY venues. Her performances have also brought her across the northeast, Canada, and Europe, to festivals such as the Bang on a Can Summer Festival at Mass MoCA, Montreal Contemporary Music Lab, Atlantic Music Festival, where she was part of the resident Contemporary Ensemble, and to the Klangspuren International Ensemble Modern Academy Festival in Austria.

Her work with ensembles reflects her stalwart commitment to new music; the 2017-18 season has seen her play as a core member in Ensemble Mise-en. She can also be heard playing around the city with ShoutHouse, Stark

Raving, and Ghost Ensemble, String Orchestra of Brooklyn and The Chelsea Symphony. In 2016, she focused much attention to her project Phoenix Quartet, which performed almost exclusively Olivier Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time and commissioned works inspired by it.

Miss Maria is also thrilled to be apart of musicals. Recently, she has been heard playing in productions of Nine with Manhattan School of Music's Musical Theatre Department, Sondheim on Sondheim with Fire Island Performing Arts Project, and a new musical, Brontes, about the literary Bronte sisters as part of Theatre in Asylum. In the past, she's been grateful to play in productions of Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and a new musical Marry Harry.

Miss Maria is a Presser Scholar and recipient of the President's Award for the Purchase College Conservatory of Music. She earned a BM with a History Minor from Purchase College, where she studied with Julia Lichten, and Miss Maria recently completed a Masters Degree in Contemporary Performance from Manhattan School of Music under the tutelage of Fred Sherry.

Away from the instrument, Maria enjoys boxing, crossword puzzles, board games, and reading big books about American history. Currently, she is in the middle of Ron Chernow's Washington. She also works with kids after school teaching chess, percussion, and science.

Recent Cello Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Cello articles on our blog.

Choosing whether to play the violin or cello can be difficult, but this article will help you consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.
The violin and cello are two of the most well-known and commonly studied instruments in the string family. Each one is central to the makeup of the orchestra we know today. Becoming familiar with the pros and cons of these two instruments will help you decide whether the violin or cello is a better fit for you.
Violin or Cello - How to Decide
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Many beginning musicians wonder, Is cello hard to learn? The process of learning the cello is not difficult, but its important to keep in mind that the cello is not an instrument of instant gratification. It does require focused, daily practice time and a good teacher to guide you along the way.
How far you progress with cello is a direct result of the amount of quality time you put into practicing the instrument. Even someone who puts in just 30 minutes a day will notice a significant …
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